France has "shut 20 radical Islam-preaching mosques." There are some 2,500 mosques and prayer halls in France, about 120 of which are considered to be preaching radical Salafism. Is this a necessary step to fight the war on terror?

France has "shut 20 radical Islam-preaching mosques." There are some 2,500 mosques and prayer halls in France, about 120 of which are considered to be preaching radical Salafism. Is this a necessary step to fight the war on terror?

France shutting radical Islam preaching mosques is necessary

France's shutting of 20 radical Islam preaching mosques is a necessary step in the war on terror. These mosques preach hate and violence, not a peaceful message of religion and tolerance. Although there could be some backlash, most people will realize that France has been under siege and must do everything it can to shut down radicals.

Hate speech must not be tolerated.

This is not a matter of religious freedom, but of inciting hatred. I argue that any group which promotes extremism must be shut down, inside and outside of the Muslim community Although I would add that authorities must be certain that these actions are absolutely justified. The damage that these groups may do in pushing individuals to extremism pales in comparison with the effect they may have on community relations.

Yes, this is a necessary step to fight the war on terror.

The French government shutting down radical mosques is a necessary step in fighting and winning the war on terror. No, France does not want to discriminate against Muslims, which would further alienate the Muslim community in France. However, the French government does not want terrorists to hide behind religion in order to spread their message of violence.

No, it will backfire

Shutting down the mosques is silencing the faithful and will do the opposite of what they are intending. Many will feel that they are being prosecuted for no reason and may reach out to radicalism. When you feel disenfranchised there is always a chance of lashing out. The fundamental right to worship should never be trampled, instead the police should reach out to the community and have an open door policy where the parishioners can turn people in if necessary.